The Energy Minister says progress will be swift on a new gas-importing facility

The Government's aiming to sign a contract by mid-year - to build an LNG site in Taranaki.

It says it'll save the country about 265 million dollars a year - about 50 dollars per household - and protect about 2000 jobs.

Simon Watts says it should be operational late-2027 - or early 2028.

He says they expect to have strengthened our energy security by 2027 - and reduce the risks driving up power prices in dry years.